The Draw of Patrick County

By David Pleasants

My love of Patrick County started in the late 60’s when I was a boy scout in Greensboro, NC. My scoutmaster owned a large 1800’s house on the parkway, in Patrick County. It was in bad shape but he would take the troop up there several times a year. On the way up, we stopped at the Dan River Queen boat for a ride and at the Circle M Zoo. Both of which no longer exist.

As we traveled from Greensboro to my scoutmaster’s house, we would travel through Stuart, Virginia. I knew at that age I wanted to live in Patrick County. As a boy from the city, the beauty and serenity of the mountains inspired and overcame me. One Sunday, I was looking through the Greensboro paper and noticed a 5-acre tract of land with a one-room cabin for sale in Patrick County. I called the realtor, got directions, and drove up that day. It was a one room, unfinished cabin with no electricity or running water, but it did have a nice creek and a spring.

I fell in love immediately and called the realtor and told him to consider it sold. I got home and told my parents and they were mad at me saying “you will never be able to pay for it.” I was 18 years old and had a full time job that didn’t pay much, so I got an additional job and worked about 70 hours a week. In 5 years, it was paid for, and I have never regretted my decision.

Once I retired about 8 years ago, we bought a house 1/4 mile from that original cabin, and that is where we live. I added onto that cabin and put in electricity. We call it Lily Cove Cottage and we now rent it as a vacation home to those looking for a quiet mountain getaway. People enjoy the natural setting, relaxing on the porch, the soothing sounds of the creek, and the chance to recharge and reconnect. It’s no surprise to me that the winding roads of Patrick County leading to this little cottage off the beaten path seem to call people back year after year.

I love the people of Patrick County. They are extremely friendly and a lot of fun. There is always something going on here, and we can hardly keep up with all of the social events. My wife and I are extremely proud and happy to be living in such a warm and beautiful community.

“Find Yourself Here” is a guest column from someone who is either from the county or has moved to the county, and why they love it here. If you are interested in writing a column in a subsequent issue or know someone we should highlight, please contact us at director@patrickchamber.com.